Pendulum systems may be modeled in SAP2000 using nonlinear time-history analysis with large deflections. Typically, the restoring force comes from a linear spring modeled either as a torsional spring at the support or as a horizontal spring attached to the free end. Pendulum systems may be useful for simulation and solution of isolation and tuned-mass damper problems.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a

pendulum system is modeled using axially stiff frame objects and gap (compression-only) links, located at the points of contact. Attached is an animation of the system oscillating.

See Also

• Contact surface article

Attachments

• [Pendulum video |Pendulum^Pendulum_video.zip] (zipped AVI file)